The Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus) is a small, nocturnal lizard known for its translucent granular skin, large lidless eyes, and adhesive toe pads, thriving primarily in urban environments across the Mediterranean and beyond.
First described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, the Mediterranean House Gecko originates from the Mediterranean regions. It has since spread globally, largely due to its close association with human habitation, establishing populations in urban, suburban, and rural areas worldwide.
This species belongs to the genus Hemidactylus within the family Gekkonidae, a group of geckos characterized by their adaptability to human environments and widespread distribution. It is also known by the synonym Gekko turcicus.
The Mediterranean House Gecko is small, reaching 8 to 10 centimeters in total length. Its soft, granular skin is translucent and typically pale pink, gray, or light brown with darker mottling. It features large, lidless eyes with vertical pupils and expanded toe pads equipped with adhesive lamellae, enabling it to climb smooth surfaces with ease.
Primarily nocturnal, this gecko is insectivorous and highly adaptable, often found inside or around buildings. Its adhesive toe pads allow it to navigate vertical and smooth surfaces effortlessly. It plays a beneficial role in controlling insect populations in human dwellings.
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Buy ShirtWhile not widely prominent in art or mythology, the Mediterranean House Gecko is appreciated in many cultures for its role in natural pest control. Occasionally kept as a pet or studied in laboratories, it holds minor significance in scientific and educational contexts.
The Mediterranean House Gecko naturally inhabits Mediterranean regions but has been introduced worldwide, especially in urban and suburban areas. It favors environments close to human dwellings, including inside buildings, where it finds shelter and abundant insect prey.
This gecko is insectivorous, feeding primarily on a variety of insects attracted to human habitats. Its nocturnal activity aligns with the availability of prey such as moths, flies, and other small arthropods, making it an effective natural pest controller.
The Mediterranean House Gecko is oviparous, laying eggs that hatch into juveniles. It grows at a moderate rate, reaching maturity within about one year. This relatively fast lifecycle supports its ability to establish and maintain populations in diverse environments.
Currently, the Mediterranean House Gecko faces no significant conservation threats due to its wide distribution and adaptability. Its populations are stable, benefiting from its resilience to urban environmental stressors, though predation by domestic cats and larger reptiles can impact local numbers.
Though not commonly kept as pets, Mediterranean House Geckos require environments that mimic their natural warm, urban habitats. They thrive with access to vertical climbing surfaces, moderate humidity, and a diet of live insects. Captive care should consider their nocturnal nature and need for hiding places to reduce stress.
